Chapter One
“David Harper”, Starskys’ new alter-ego and alias, was hired on the spot at the Steamboat Café restaurant. Told to return that evening at 6pm sharp, he left from there, heading straight over to Hutch’s apartment. He opened the door and found Hutch sitting at his kitchen table, talking on the phone with Huggy.
“Yeah. Right Hug. Eddie Cunningham. Yeah, okay then. If you find out anything, call Dobey. He’ll relay the message. Thanks Huggy.” Hutch hung up the phone and looked at Starsky, who sat down beside him. “You get the job?” he asked, half grinning. Starsky looked at him mock surprise.
“Of course I got the job. I am, after all, ME.” He said grinning. Hutch laughed.
“I suppose you got it on your charm and talent, and NOT because Dobey had the guy you replaced arrested for parole violations yesterday??” Hutch asked with a cocky smile, not missing the opportunity to tease his partner. Starsky just tilted his head and grinned, raising his eyebrows.
Hutch stood up, gathering together the luggage he’d packed earlier. “This is going to be interesting.” He said, placing it beside the door, then walking back towards the kitchen. “Been a while since we pulled an undercover operation like this.”
“Yeah, but Dobey thinks we’ve got a real good chance of bringin’ this smuggling group down. What I don’t get is how such a big-time drug operation is moving through such a small local restaurant. I mean, seems to me it’d be real obvious.” Starsky said, grabbing the soda that Hutch placed in front of him.
Hutch pulled out the file that Dobey had given them this morning, giving them both the opportunity to look at the surveillance pictures once more before they left their reality to become someone else’s. He opened it, then spread the pictures out across the table. He pointed to the first photo, looking at Starsky, asking who it was.
“Eddie Cunningham. Chef. Supposed head of the smuggling operation. Nephew of the owners. Met him today … looks to be a real jerk if you ask me. I think he’s happy as long as everyone’s kissing his ass.” he said as Hutch raised an eyebrow. Hutch pointed at the next photo.
“Gayle and Rob Franklin. Owners of the Steamboat Café. Uh, no kids, just the nephew. Not sure if they’re in on the smuggling ring or not. I met them today, too. They seem nice enough, not stuck up or nothing.” Starsky said, sipping from his soda. Hutch slid the next photo towards him.
“Hmmm. That’s uh, Lisa … Lisa, Lisa, Lisa …Bailey! Yeah, that’s it! Lisa Bailey. Waitress, breakfast cook on the weekends, and sometimes bartender. Loyal to the Franklin’s. Not YET suspected of being involved in the ring.” he said, looking closely at the surveillance photo as he picked it up.
Hutch pulled the next photo towards his partner, pleased at how well he remembered everything, even though he was only briefed by Dobey for ten minutes before he had to leave and try to get hired at the restaurant. Starsky picked up the last photo in front of him and smiled sheepishly.
“This is Greta.” He began, looking at the photo. “Blonde, green eyed, and sure to be in love with me before the end of next week.” He said, smiling broadly. Hutch gave him one of his ‘get serious’ looks, and Starsky sat the photo back down on the table. “She’s the evening waitress, works most every night they’re open. Not yet suspected of being in on the operation. Known for being quite the flirt.” He said smugly as he proudly looked over at Hutch. “There.” He said, matter-of-factly.
“Very good.” Hutch said, pulling the photos together and placing them back in the file. “I figure I’ll leave in a little while and check into the motel. I called for a reservation and pretty much got laughed at.” He said, shaking his head. “Seems it’s not that popular of a motel. But I asked for a room on the end of the building, and they said there was one available. I should be able to keep good surveillance on the restaurant from there.” Hutch said.
“You oughta be grateful there’s a motel on the same property as the restaurant. Otherwise you’d be watching the place from your car.” Starsky said with a chuckle. “I don’t know why I’m the one who’s gotta work in there and cook, and you get to play ‘blueprint contractor man’ and stay in the motel and eat meals there ... while I have to cook ‘em!” Starsky said, almost pouting. Hutch laughed at his partner, who smiled back at him.
“When do you start working?” Hutch asked, getting up and placing his chair in towards the table.
“Tonight.” Starsky said with a grin. He leaned back in the chair, stretching his arms behind him as he placed his hands behind his head. “6pm. Being Friday night, I’ll either do alright or I’ll get fired, ‘cause you know they’re gonna be busy.” He didn’t look too enthusiastic as his face scowled.
“You’ll do fine.
Guess I’ll see you tonight then.” Hutch said as he headed out the door,
struggling with the luggage as he picked it up. “Oh, by the way.
Be careful. They got knives in those kitchens you know. Wouldn’t
want you to cut yourself.” Hutch was still chuckling at his own joke as
he closed the door, missing the sarcastic look that bore towards him.
Chapter Two
David ‘Harper’ began working in the small but busy restaurant, diving right into his job as fry cook and kitchen helper. His job was mainly dropping fries and hush puppies and doing prep work on other items such as breading, peeling shells and anything else he was told to do. He surprised himself at how quickly he caught on to everything, and found himself being complimented on his work by none other than Eddie Cunningham; the ‘chef’, as he called himself. They engaged in a little small talk, in between Eddie barking to everyone what needed to be done to get through the rush. Starsky felt sorry for the dishwasher, a young girl named Carrie who had also just started working there that evening. Starsky wondered why the kid hadn’t walked out and told Eddie to ‘shove it’ already. Instead she was keeping up with her duties, and pretty much ignoring Eddie; just doing as she was told.
Hutch had gotten checked in, getting the room he was hoping for. The only window in the small room looked directly out into the restaurants’ dining room. It took him no time to get his equipment set up; he was pleased by the perfect angle for taking surveillance shots with his camera. He walked into the restaurant around 6:30pm, sitting at a table, ordering his dinner, then explaining his life’s story as Ken ‘Anderson’ to the waitress that tended him: Greta. She was nice enough to listen. He told of his life on the road and his job making blueprints for construction contractors. She was polite, and at least pretended to look interested, though it seemed genuine to him. She was tall and blonde, built very nicely; pleasing on the eyes. Hutch enjoyed her attentiveness and left a large tip as he proceeded to the bar.
The waitresses came
rushing in and out from the kitchen, brushing up against Starsky now and
then as they brought in their food tickets. The space for them to
maneuver around was small, but Starsky didn’t mind. This gave him
the perfect opportunity to introduce himself and talk a little to them.
His sexy smile made him instantly likable to the ladies, who were sweet
enough to ignore the sweat that ran down his face. By 8pm, he was
on a first name basis with everyone, pleased as he enjoyed his new found
popularity.
Lisa was bartending, and also taking the tables that Greta couldn’t get to. She was shorter than Greta with long brown hair which reflected blonde and reddish highlights, her eyes were hazel, and she looked less made up than Greta; more of a natural look. She also listened to Hutch as he gave his spiel, looking as if she were genuinely concerned for him as he traveled around; finding it fascinating that he actually understood blueprints, much less made them. By the time he’d left, the personnel knew him on a first name basis.
All in all, this set
up was running smoother than they’d both expected. But they knew
it couldn’t be that easy. Never was.
Chapter Three
Within a few nights, Starsky had found himself to be quite adept to working in the kitchen, and Rob and Gayle had decided that with Sunday nights being so slow, they would set him on his own, giving Eddie a night off. The kitchen was much more pleasant without him. Everyone seemed in better spirits without the chef around, bellowing and barking at whim, and the girls were more talkative and friendly. Especially Greta, who was OBVIOUSLY flirting with him. Lisa was not so forward. Polite enough not to hurt his feelings; amused as she watched Greta trying to charm him. This intrigued him. He watched Lisa. Not ignoring Greta; keeping his eyes open to all that was going on around him as he studied them both.
From Lisa’s point of view, he was playing some sort of game, like he wanted to be more than friendly with her AND Greta. She wasn’t having any of that. Eddie had tried that crap, but she wasn’t interested in him anyway, so it didn’t matter; he was nothing but a user. But this guy was different. She was attracted to him, but not about to let him know it. She had read his application and found out about his past run ins with the law; seeing that he was on probation. She wasn’t going to be letting herself fall into another bad relationship with yet another guy who didn’t care where he was headed. The one thing she had learned from the last guy she was serious about was that if they don’t care about what their future has ahead of them, they damned sure don’t care about yours either. She was bitter. Probably why she hadn’t dated anyone for the better part of eight months.
Greta found David charming and handsome. She thrived on the attention of men, enjoyed it immensely. That new customer, Ken, that stayed in the motel, was really nice too, and talked to her endlessly about things like his work and travels. He could possibly be quite fun during his stay. She wondered about him, musing at the prospects. The same thoughts went through her mind each time she looked at David. It was going to be interesting working here now, she believed.
When Ken ‘Anderson’ came into the dining room, Greta found his timing to be perfect. She had three tables of customers, who had already been served and pretty much taken care of. She talked to Hutch sweetly, bringing him his drink and flattering his appearance. He blushed a little. He ordered the chef’s salad and she brought it to him, talking all the while. When the other tables left, she busily cleaned them off, hoping he’d be watching. He was. After his meal, she brought him a beer and sat down across from him at his table. She knew what she wanted. So did he. He knew that he needed to find out as much information about Eddie as he could, and felt she just might be willing to tell him, with possibly just a little persuasion. He smiled, asking if she’d like to come over to his room after the restaurant closed. She smiled enthusiastically.
“I may just be able to get off now, if you’d like.” Greta said, looking at her watch. Hutch chuckled; amused at her way with words. It was 8pm, and the restaurant closed at 9pm. Hutch shook his head in agreement and she walked into the kitchen area, and seeing Starsky, she winked at him as she walked over to Lisa.
Starsky watched as
Greta stood next to Lisa and began talking to her. She was excited
about something, smiling and happy. Lisa just looked at her, not
showing much enthusiasm, but shaking her head in an approving motion which
made Greta even giddier than before. She was almost skipping as she
headed out from the kitchen. Starsky looked at Lisa, who caught his
stare and just nodded, then walked out into the dining room. He walked
behind her, seeing Hutch and Greta as they were leaving. Hutch waved
to him.
Chapter Four
Starsky watched as Lisa piddled around the now vacant dining room, bringing out the vacuum, setting tables and wrapping silverware. He pretty much had everything done he could do in the kitchen, not being able to put everything away until they were actually closed, and offered to help her out there. She turned him down, a bit coldly, telling him it was taken care of. He couldn’t tell if she was mad at him or Greta, or if something else bothered her. She’d been quiet all evening; keeping to herself and just not acting quite right, or normal, or whatever it was; he couldn’t put his finger on it. Once the dishes from Hutch’s table were done, she let Carrie go on home, telling her if there was any business afterwards she’d take care of the dishes. Carrie was grateful.
Starsky watched Lisa closely as she walked into the break room; a banquet room that, when not in use, was a place for employees to relax and sit for a few minutes, smoke, have a soda or meal, and just chill. It was the perfect spot, as the entrance of the restaurant was visible in case anyone walked in. She had seemed distant, and he found himself feeling a bit uneasy about it. He stood outside the break room and watched her.
Lighting her cigarette, she took a sip from her soda and began looking through her purse. She pulled out a tissue and unwrapped it, putting what looked to be several pills in her hand from inside it. She looked around and sighed. Taking a deep breath, she lifted them to her mouth.
They didn’t make it. Starsky plowed into her, tackling her and sending her from the chair to the ground, pills and soda flying everywhere. She fought to get him off from her, panicked; not knowing what his intentions were, only knowing he had jumped her and she was scared. He struggled with her, pinning her down on the floor as he leaned himself over her. She kicked him as he held her down, successfully hitting him in the groin. He winced from the pain, but didn’t let go of the grip he had on her. Using his strength to keep her hands above her head as she laid on the floor, he turned his body just so; simply straddling his weight on top of her.
“What the hell are you trying to do to yourself?!” he asked, holding her arms to the floor above her as she continued to struggle. His words seemed to penetrate her, and she abruptly stopped trying to free herself from his grip.
“What are you talking about?” she hollered at him, looking at him like he’d lost his mind.
“Those pills!” he began, not releasing his grip. “What do you think you will accomplish taking those drugs?! What are ya trying to do, kill yourself?!” he asked, his face flushed from anger and concern, his voice harsh and demanding. She looked at him, staring with an odd expression.
“Why David. I didn’t know you cared.” She said sarcastically. His look changed. Anger turned to confusion as he released his grip around her wrists; still sitting on top of her.
“Well I do!” he began, then softening the anger his tone. “Tell me what’s wrong. Maybe I can help. But you’re not going to find any comfort from those pills over there.” he said, looking at the drugs that were strewn across the carpeting. He got up from where he had her pinned and sat beside her; helping her to sit up beside him.
“I don’t know whether
to thank you for worrying about me or punch you in the mouth.” She said
angrily, rubbing her wrists, then the back of her head. His look
was questioning as his body stiffened, as if waiting for her to attempt
the latter.
“You want to explain
those pills to me then?” he asked, his authoritative tone sounding very
much like the question of a cop. She looked at him, gazing into his
eyes; the anger fading from her own. She took a deep breath.
“I have migraines. They don’t come very often, but when they do, sometimes if I take my meds early enough I can catch them before they get too bad.” She lowered her head, looking as her eyes cut up to him. “After this little incident, I don’t think I’m going to catch this one in time.” The pain was evident in her face. He studied her, then looked at the pills around him on the floor. He began feeling guilty, then suddenly embarrassed. He got up, trying to hide the pain her kick had inflicted on him, and picked up the four pills from the floor, blowing on them in his palm to get rid of any dirt; eyeing them to make sure they weren’t anything he’d seen on the streets. He walked out towards the bar and fixed her another soda, then came back in with her, kneeling as he handed them to her.
“I’m so sorry. I, I had know idea.” His embarrassment showed as he tried to find the words to apologize. “I really thought you were trying to hurt yourself. I, well, I’m sorry.” He said as he watched her take the medication. She looked at him with no expression at first, then sighed and grinned at him.
“It’s okay. I guess. You actually thought I was trying to hurt myself?” she questioned, her eyes searching his. “In this place?” she asked, her face grinning as she tried to make a joke out of it.
“You were acting strange all evening, ya know?” Starsky began, “You were distant and not talking and, I don’t know. I saw the pills in your hand and jumped to a terrible conclusion. I’m really sorry.” He said, looking hopeful that she would accept his apology. She smiled at him.
“It’s nice that you’d care like that.” She said. She began to get up from the floor, then pain seamed to flash across her face as she sat back down.
“Oh God. Did I hurt you?” Starsky asked, looking at her as he put his hands on her, trying to check her over, fearing that he had.
“No, it’s just the migraine.” She said, letting him help her stand. Her face looked pale and her headache was visibly showing. He helped her walk into the kitchen, where the bright light made her wince, shooting pain through her. She ran towards the restroom, feeling the churning of her stomach. Instinctively he followed her in there, but she made him leave; not wanting anyone with her. When she returned, she found him waiting outside the door for her. Her face was pale and her hand was shaking as she pulled her hair away from it.
“You’re not going to
be able to drive yourself home like this. Can I at least give you
a lift?” Starsky asked, feeling guilty, wanting to help this lady in distress.
She looked at him, wondering if this was some sort of come on line or if
his concern was genuine. He sensed what she thought. “I’m not
gonna try anything. I promise.” He said. She looked at him,
and believed him, laughed.
“I would hope you’d
have better tastes than that. I saw how I looked in the mirror in
there.” She said, trying to make a joke. His look was still concerned,
half grinning at her. “I’d really appreciate a ride.” She told
him.
He quickly finished cleaning things up around the kitchen, putting things away and getting everything set up. Lisa sat at one of the tables in the dining room with her head down until he came in there. He walked over to her and gently put his hands on her shoulders. She got up with his assistance, and locked the door behind them as they left. Once they were inside the Torino, he began the drive to her place as she gave him directions.
Hutch saw them as they
left, and wondered just what Starsky was getting himself into. Greta
wondered why he kept looking out the window, but it was something he did
every evening when Starsky was working. He had to see for himself
that his friend left okay each night.
Chapter Five
Starsky parked in front of Lisa’s apartment building and got out, opening the car door for her as she slowly came out from the seat. She had been very quiet as they drove there, only speaking to tell him the way. She had thanked him for taking her home, but her voice was soft spoken, as if it hurt her to talk. He kept looking at her, worrying as he watched her suffer. He wondered if he had made things worse by attacking her like he did.
She let him walk her up to her apartment, giving him her trust, or feeling too bad discourage him; he didn’t know which. She walked in and he looked around. It was sparsely yet tastefully decorated and very neat. She turned to face him, thanking him for the ride and for being a gentleman. He looked at her, his expression was worried. She smiled at him.
“I’ll be fine David. Really. I’ve been through this before and survived.” she told him, grinning. He grinned back at her.
“You sure?” he asked, putting his hand on the door handle.
“Thank you.” She said, putting her hand on his arm. “I’m sure.” She said. He leaned over towards her and kissed her on the cheek.
“I’d like to come back by here tomorrow afternoon and check on ya, since the restaurant’s closed and all.” He told her. She grinned at him.
“Sure.” She answered,
watching him as he gently closed the door. He listened until he heard
her engage the lock, then walked down the hallway towards the entrance,
grinning.
Hutch and Greta were becoming more than friends at a very fast pace. So much so that he had to back away from her to cool down a little. He pulled himself from her and smiled.
“What’s the matter?” she asked him, her voice teasing. “Getting a little HOT in here??” she giggled. His face was almost blushing at her forwardness.
“I think we could go a little slower … you know, maybe talk a little?” he said, playing the role of the shy businessman very well. She grinned at him, sitting herself up, buttoning the top of her blouse.
“Sure.” She said, patting the back of his hand. “What do you want to talk about?” she asked him sweetly.
“How about you?” he said. Her eyes lit up.
“Me?” her question seemed genuine.
“Well sure.” Hutch began. It was the wrong thing for him to say, apparently. She began talking about her childhood, born in Watertown, New York; moving to California when she was twelve; her two failed marriages, and her four failed engagements. Hutch was amazed: she couldn’t have been more than 26 years old. She told him about her relationships, giving too much detail. After thirty minutes, she finally took a break from talking. He looked at her, noticing the sweet face that looked back at him.
“How’d you end up working in the restaurant here; I mean, waitressing?” he asked, almost fearing the length her answer would be.
“Oh. Eddie, the chef there? He brought me with him. We worked together at another restaurant before that ended up closing. So when he came here to give his aunt and uncle a hand, he brought me with him. The tips from waitressing can really be good. I like making lots of money. Oh, and then there’s always getting to meet people like you. That’s like a bonus!” she said, not able to resist him any longer as she jumped over into his arms, kissing him. His mind began to race as he added things up in his head. They were necking a good ten minutes when she began letting her hands wander. He pulled her off from him quickly, gently easing her back as he took deep breaths. She just smiled at him.
“I think we should slow down a little.” he told her, hoping not to hurt her feelings.
“Sure.” She said, sounding a little disappointed.
“That Eddie sure is a good cook. Must make good money at it, too.” He said. “That’s some kinda fancy car he drives.” He added.
“He makes good money there, but he also does side work, too.” She told him, gently running her fingers up and down his chest. Hutch cleared his throat.
“What kind of side work does he do?” he began, grabbing her hand before it went any further, holding it with his own.
“Just stuff. Why do you ask?” she questioned.
“Oh, if he’s interested in side work I could always use extra hands on my job.” He said, grateful for thinking that up so quickly.
“No,” she began, bringing her face to his as she talked. “He wouldn’t want to do anything where he got his hands dirty.” She said, laughing as her mouth got closer to his ear. “I have a couple of extra hands …” she teased, letting them rub his shoulders.
“Oh!” Hutch began, giggling a little as her touch tickled him. “So what does he do to keep his hands clean and get a nice car like that? Maybe I might want to go work for him.” He said playfully, trying to grab the hands that fondled him.
“Why are we talking about Eddie?” she asked him, sitting up suddenly as she looked him in the eyes. “I can think of so many other things we could be doing OTHER than talking.” She said, throwing herself into him as she kissed him intensely. Hutch enjoyed her passion, but suddenly stopped her, smiling shyly as he sat himself up, putting a little distance between them.
“Hey, the restaurant’s closed tomorrow, right?” he asked. She nodded her head ‘yes’ to him, almost looking as if her feelings had been hurt. “How about I take you out to dinner?”
“Really?” she asked.
“Sure.” Hutch began, “Maybe a movie, too. We can make a real night out of it” He said, watching her face as it lit up again.
“That would be great.”
She told him enthusiastically. She pulled out a card from her purse
and handed it to him. It had her name and address and phone number
on it. He wasn’t surprised.
Chapter Six
The next morning, Starsky drove over to Hutch’s apartment and walked in, seeing his friend sitting at the kitchen table; looking over the photos he had already developed from his stake out the past few days. Starsky began looking at them as he handed Hutch a bag, food still warm inside it that he’d just picked up from Huggy’s.
“Huggy gave me a few names to check out. I already got Hanks and Ingles on it.” He said, noticing the abundance of pictures of Greta in the pile. Hutch noticed his partner looking at the photos.
“She’s very photogenic.” He said, grinning as he pulled out a bagel from the bag.
“Uh huh.” Starsky replied, picking up a picture of Lisa. “This must’ve been taken yesterday.” He stated. Hutch looked at the photo.
“Yeah, how’d you know?” he asked.
“From that look on her face. It’s so, I dunno, I guess ‘pained’.” Starsky answered him.
“Didn’t I see you leaving with her last night?” Hutch asked.
“Yeah.” Starsky began, grabbing some food from the bag and putting it in front of him. “I saw her getting ready to take a handful of pills around closing time, and I sorta tackled her to keep her from putting ‘em in her mouth.” Hutch looked concerned as he listened, putting his bagel down. “Turns out it was her migraine medication. After I apologized, I felt so bad about it I offered her a ride home and she accepted.” He said, taking a bite from his food. Hutch just looked at him, raising his eyebrows in a questioning motion. Starsky noticed the glare.
“Naw, nothing like that. She was pretty sick. Guess it’s a good thing the restaurant is closed on Mondays. I don’t think she’d have made it in today.” He said, still eating. Hutch pulled two pictures from the pile and handed them to Starsky.
“This is Jerry Wilson. He’s the delivery guy for Gates Food Service. Both Friday and Saturday, Eddie’s had a supposed return on merchandise, and this guys’ been the one to come and get it. Just put a tale on him this morning. I think things are starting to click together. If we can just get everyone that’s in on this operation…” he said, not finishing.
“Yeah,” Starsky began, “and figure out who the bad guys are.” He said. “I cant tell if Lisa’s in on this or not, but my gut says she’s not” He continued. “On the other hand, I really don’t think that Rob and Gayle are involved, either.”
“Yeah, I’d have to agree on that.” Hutch said. ”I haven’t seen any signs of it. But they’re going to be in for a big let down when they find out their nephew is using their business for his illegal activities.” Starsky shook his head in agreement.
“What’s been going on with you and Greta?” he asked, a sheepish grin crossing his face. Hutch smiled.
“What hasn’t?” he said. “Pretty girl. Not shy at all.” He said, grinning. “I think she’s the link here, Starsk. She told me last night that she and Eddie used to work together before at the other restaurant. The two times Eddie’s had the food service truck come by, she’s been busy and very preoccupied from what I could see from my room. I questioned her a little about where he got all the money for that fancy sports car and she said he does side jobs. Sounds pretty suspicious to me.” He said, finishing his last few bites.
“Well,” Starsky began, “I’m sure you’ll, uh, get to the bottom of that.” He said smiling, then laughed as Hutch choked a little on his food. Starsky got up and looked at the pictures one more time as he stood over the table. “I’m going to go over to Lisa’s around four. Told her I’d come by and see how she’s feeling. Maybe offer a little comfort.” he said, a big smile appearing on his face.
“Famous last words,
my friend.” Hutch said, watching Starsky as he went towards the door, leaning
back in to smile at him.
Chapter Seven
After going home and
showering, cleaning up a little and catching a short nap, Starsky went
over to Lisa’s place. He knocked only twice. She answered her
door, dressed in blue jeans and a dark red shirt, and let him in.
It was the first time he hadn’t seen her in the basic black pants, white
shirt, and teal apron uniform she wore at work. It softened her look.
Her face had a touch of make up on it, but not like she wore to work, and
for the first time, her hair was down instead of pulled back in that ponytail
she always wore; giving her a totally different appearance. She looked
very nice.
“How are you feeling?” Starsky asked, walking in as she pulled the door open for him. She smiled.
“Better than before.” She told him.
“Is that all?” he asked, looking at her more closely.
“It’s an improvement.”
She said, giving him a smile as she walked to the kitchen and brought back
a beer for him. He watched as she drank water from a glass.
“You’re not gonna
have one with me?” he asked.
“No, I’m still taking my meds right now. As long as I can keep them down this time.” She told him. His face scowled.
“You sure you’re okay?” he asked, taking his hand and holding her face with it, as if he could look deeply enough in her eyes and know for himself. She just grinned as he looked.
“I am sure.” She told him, gently pulling her face from his hand.
“You want to go out? Maybe have some dinner?” he asked. She looked at him, a slight grin coming across her face.
“Not really.” She said. There was a long pause of silence, making them both feel a little awkward. She broke it. “I really want to thank you for bringing me home last night.” she said, looking down towards her feet. “I thought you were very nice to do that.” She added, still not looking at him. She sat down in a chair and he sat across from her on the sofa.
“You mean because I didn’t try something?” he asked slyly.
“That too.” She began, “ Most guys are always up to something. Always have an ulterior motive.“ she said, still not looking directly at him. He felt at a loss for words, wondering how to respond. She looked up at him, noticing how uncomfortable she’d made him.
“I’m sorry. That didn’t come out right.” She began. “I just meant… well, it was nice of you to do that and I don’t know very many people that would.”
“Maybe you’ve been hanging around the wrong kind of people.” He told her, half grinning, half serious.
“No doubt about that. I can really pick ‘em.” She said, getting up, grabbing his empty beer bottle. He stood up with her, grabbing her arm, stopping her from leaving the room.
“Hey.” He said gently, looking directly into her eyes. “It doesn’t have to be like that, you know.” She looked kindly at him.
“Yeah.” She began, ”How come you’re being so nice?” she asked, pulling her arm from his grip. He smiled.
“That’s me.” He answered. She came back in, bringing another beer and sitting back down in her chair. She just looked at him.
“Look David. I read your application. You’re on parole. Right?” she asked, watching him as he sat back down on the couch. He nodded ‘yes’, not wanting to speak the lie. “Well, I think the best thing you could do for yourself is get the hell out from that restaurant.” she said, handing him the beer she brought in.
“Why?” he asked her. “It pays decent.” He said, sitting forward, listening.
“There’s just something going on there, and I’m pretty sure it’s not kosher. I don’t know what it is, but people have been acting funny and sneaky and..” she paused, “And I think that something illegal might be happening.” She looked at him with an intensity that he knew was sincere. He put his beer down on the coffee table in front of him.
“What do you mean by ‘illegal’?” he asked her, looking at her.
“I don’t know. And I don’t think I want to know. What I DO know is that IF there is something going on down there, and you are in the middle of it and on parole, you’ll probably be taking the blame for it, too.” She told him, her eyes looking at him kindly, filled with her concern.
“Are you sure?” he asked.
“Not positively. It’s more like a feeling that things are just not right. I’m giving them my notice after this weekend.” She said quietly.
“But I really got the feeling that you liked it there.” He told her.
“I do, I really do. Rob and Gayle have treated me like family, especially when they found out my parents had died.” She said, her words drifting off as if she hadn’t meant to tell him that.
“I’m sorry.” He said truthfully.
“That was a long time ago.” She said quietly. “But that is still beside the point. The point of this whole conversation is that you seem really nice and good hearted, and everyone’s entitled to a mistake or two in their lives. But whatever is going on with Eddie and Greta…” her words stopped.
“What do you think they’re doing?” Starsky asked gently. She just looked at him, wondering if she should say anything more. He sensed that.
“Look, there’s a whole
lot you don’t know about me. But I’m gonna ask you to trust me right
now.” He told her. “C’mon. I want you to take a ride with me.”
He said, standing as he held out his hand to her. She sat there a
moment, then slowly reached out her hand, putting it reluctantly into his.
Chapter Eight
Hutch had no problems finding Gretas’ home, a small and quaint little house in a nice neighborhood. The yard was landscaped nicely, complete with a white picket fence. Pretty fancy digs for waitress’ pay he thought as he walked up the cement sidewalk.
He rang the door bell, which he could hear chiming inside. Greta answered, smiling, still in her robe.
“Oh Ken! You’re right on time and I’m not ready yet! I hope you don’t mind!” she said excitedly, pulling the door towards her to let him in. He smiled at her, trying to look at her eyes instead of down at the slit in her robe, which parted when she opened the door, showing an excessive amount of her upper left thigh.
“It’s no problem.” He said, maintaining himself. Once inside, she closed the door, then pulled him into her, kissing him intensely; and for a moment, he lost himself in her, enjoying this beautiful woman who wanted him. He put his arms around her. She reacted invitingly. He felt the warmth of her breath on his face as he began kissing her chin, then her neck. Then he froze.
He heard the click and knew the all too familiar sound from behind him. A gun. It had been cocked at the back of his head. Greta eased herself out from his grip, looking behind him. Her expression showed anger.
“You could have waited a little while longer, Eddie.” She said angrily. Hutch slowly turned around, facing the gun that aimed at his head, seeing the man behind it.
“I don’t want to get in between you and your woman here, man.” Hutch said, trying to play things off; knowing why Eddie was really there.
“Don’t go pulling no crap like that on me. How stupid do you think I am, asking Blondie here all those questions about me!” He took the barrel of his 45 and slapped Hutch across the side of his face, making him reel as the pain spun him to the ground. He watched as Hutch tried to regain himself. “What are you, a friggin cop?!” Hutch looked up at him, shaking himself, trying to stop the blackness that tried to take him over. Greta was searching his pockets. She found the badge inside his jacket, and flashed it at Eddie.
“Awe man, now what am I gonna do?!!” Eddie exclaimed. Greta looked at him calmly.
“Let’s tie him up and keep him for a while. Having a cop for a hostage ought to give us some sort of insurance … don’t you think? Especially with such a big deal going down tomorrow night.” she said smiling, proud of her idea. She pulled his jacket off from him, grabbing his keys and throwing them to Eddie. “Make sure you put his car in the garage so no one can see it.” She told him. He nodded in agreement, smiling broadly and laughing.
“Oh baby, you are good. You are so good!” he told her, looking down at their semi-conscious hostage. “Come on. Let’s get the bastard tied up before he comes to.” He said as he kicked Hutch, enjoying the painful moan it produced.
Hutch awoke in total
darkness, not knowing what had happened to him nor where he was.
He tried moving, but found himself bound and gagged. Panic overtook
him. The pain in his face told him that someone had hit him, and
the gag which was tied too tightly around his mouth only intensified that
pain. He thought briefly of Starsky, hoping desperately he’d know
how to find him, then drifted back into the calm of unconsciousness.
Chapter Nine
Starsky drove Lisa to one of his favorite spots on a lake that was in Poplar Lawn Park. The sun was beginning to set, and he parked the car at a perfect angle so they could watch it as it fell into the horizon. Lisa was quiet. She was feeling a little unsafe now, being far from the city and seeing so few people close by. She hardly knew this man. She wanted to trust him, but trust was a very hard thing for her to give. She’d learned that lesson before.
“How are you doing, Lisa?” Starsky asked, noticing her quiet stiffness and wondering if it was because of her migraine or him.
“I’m fine. Why are we here?” she asked nervously, looking around at the scenery. He could hear the strain in her voice.
“Don’t worry. I didn’t bring you here for any other reason than to talk to ya.” He told her sweetly. For some odd reason, she wanted to believe that. He turned his body towards her, and she turned towards him to look him in the eyes. The silence between them was filled with birds chirping and children playing somewhere near by.
“I’m not really David Harper.” He said, just trying to get it out and over with, not wanting to beat around the bush. “My name is David Starsky, and I’m an undercover cop for the Metro Division.” Her mouth dropped open slightly, and her reaction was unexpectedly quiet.
“So you’re investigating Eddie, I’m guessing?” was all she asked.
“Yeah.” He answered. “The department found out about a drug smuggling operation that seemed to revolve around the restaurant. I was placed in there undercover in hopes of finding out what was going on and bringin’ the operation down. I need to know what makes you think there’s something illegal going on down there. Anything you might know or can tell me might be the clue we’re looking for to put him away, and what I’m hoping to do is not get his aunt and uncle too involved when it all goes down.” His words were evenly spoken and calm, but she couldn’t hear the truth in them. Panic was slowly edging over her. She’d seen thugs coming in the restaurant, looking to find Eddie, wanting to hurt him, maybe get in on his action. They’d told her all sorts of lies, trying to get at him; the cop story wasn’t the first. She couldn’t help but be pessimistic about this man sitting beside her, claiming to be a cop.
“I don’t know if there’s anything to tell.” She said quietly. He didn’t notice her hand on the door handle, gripping it; readying herself to open it quickly.
“Anything you can think of just might help our case.” He told her. His mouth was open, ready to say something else, but she opened the passenger side door and fled. He was taken aback for a moment; stunned.
Starsky jumped out from his car, giving chase to the woman who ran from him. His mind raced as fast as his body, trying to understand why she was running. She moved swiftly, dodging around trees and bushes with great speed. But Starsky was faster; his legs long and his stride smooth as he ran steadily behind her; his academy training and natural agility helping to catch up to her in a matter of mere seconds. He grabbed her from behind, rolling them both as they fell to the ground. She was stunned from the fall, seeing only blurs of images for about a minute; then regained herself in time to see Starsky, hovering over her, calling her name as he tried to make sure she was alright.
“Lisa? Lisa? Are you okay? Look at me, will ya?” he asked, his face filled with concern. She was trying to focus on him. Her thoughts became clearer and she cowered from him, scared of what he might do to her now. He didn’t know how to react to her. She looked like a small scared child, still breathing heavily from the run.
“Lisa. It’s me, David. Can you see me?” he asked. She looked at him, then nodded her head ‘yes’. “Can you stand up?” he asked. Again she nodded, and he helped her off from the ground. “Why are you running like you’re scared of me? I’m not the bad guy here.” he spoke gently. She looked at him fearfully.
“You’re not even a cop, are you?” she asked acidly, holding herself.
“Sure I am.” He told her, looking for his badge. He pulled it out and showed it to her. She stared at it for a moment, then looked up at him. “Look. I’m taking a big risk telling you all this. I’m not doing this to hurt you.” He said kindly, placing his hand on her shoulder. “I’m telling ya because I know you’re one of the good guys.” He said, smiling at her. He put his hand up to her face, keeping eye contact. “Why did you run like that?” he asked. She looked at him, trying hard to believe him. She did so desperately want to trust him.
“I thought you were lying to me. I thought you were one of the goons that have come in the restaurant like before, looking for Eddie.” She paused, looking closely at him. “You wouldn’t be the first to flash a badge trying to find out about him. That’s why I KNOW he’s bad news.” She said.
Starsky led her back towards the car, holding her hand as he spoke gently to her about the sunset and the scenery; trying to make her realize that he wasn’t going to hurt her. His voice was calming. The tension in her body eased a little, and slowly she came to the conclusion that he was telling her the truth. She caught herself smiling at him.
“I can’t be all that bad, judging from that smile on your face. Now can I?” He asked, looking at her as they got back into the car. He asked no more questions, and, starting his car, drove back to her place. Once there, he parked the Torino and shut the engine off, then turned himself towards her.
“I’m sorry to have scared you like that, okay Lisa? I mean, I just felt like I could trust ya. I still feel that way. I’m taking a big risk bringin’ ya back home. You could go in there and call Eddie right now and blow my cover.” He paused and smiled at her. “But I trust you.” His words were sincere and his eyes told her he meant them. She opened the car door and leaned as if she were getting out, then paused, closing it back again.
“I think you should
take me out to dinner.” She said, smiling. He smiled back at her,
starting the engine.
Chapter Ten
The next morning found Starsky arriving at Hutch’s apartment, tickled with himself from the nice evening he had enjoyed the night before. Lisa was pretty interesting and likable. He found himself surprised at what a good time he’d had, enjoying her company and the fact that she had opened up to him. She’d told him about the way Eddie and Greta would act funny on certain days. The same days that the delivery truck would arrive with the restaurants’ food order; confirming Hutch’s suspicions. She told him how strange it was, that on the same occasions where they would act suspiciously, the truck always came late in the evening instead of the usual 3pm delivery time. She also told him that she’d help in any way she could to protect the Franklin’s from their nephews’ corruption. Then she told him ‘yes’ when he asked if he could take her out again; the goodnight kiss she gave him was icing on the cake. He smiled broadly when he let himself into Hutch’s apartment.
The smile dropped when he realized that Hutch wasn’t there. Looking around, he found nothing disturbed, an indication that Hutch hadn’t been there. Hutch always was where he said he’d be, and true to his word, he had been back in his apartment every morning by 9am. Starsky looked at his watch. It was 10am.
Quickly finding the phone book, he looked up the number to the motel and called, asking for Hutch’s room number. The switchboard put him through, but the phone was never answered. His gut told him that something was terribly wrong, and he ran to his car, driving too fast as he arrived at the motel. Grateful that no one from the restaurant was at work yet, he pulled up beside the motel, letting himself into Hutch’s room, easily picking the lock. The bed had not been slept in. Still made up from the day before, the room was neat and in order. Starsky became frantic, knowing his partner would not disappear without letting him know something. He searched through Hutch’s belongings, through the drawers, looking for any clue that would help him locate his friend. He felt panic edging into him. Then he saw it. A pile of papers stacked neatly on the desk by the window. Some were blueprints for Hutch’s cover, some notes, and the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign for hanging on the door. But there was a business card sitting among the papers that looked unfamiliar. He picked it up, reading Greta’s name and address. Grabbing the phone, he called the precinct. As soon as he got through to Dobey, he explained everything up till then, giving him Greta’s address. He told his Captain that if he wasn’t heard from in thirty minutes to send back up. After telling him to be careful, Captain Dobey hung up, and Starsky was on his way.
Starsky pulled the Torino up in front of the white picket fence, checking the address on the card and then looking at the house numbers on the mailbox. They were both the same. Gaining his composure, he shut off the engine and got out, looking around as he calmly walked up the side walk and knocked on the door. After a few moments, he rang the door bell a couple of times, growing impatient at the lack of response. He was ready to walk around towards the back when the door opened. Greta looked at him and smiled, a little surprised to see him standing in front of her.
“David? What are you doing here?” she asked sweetly. He pulled out the business card with her name and address on it and showed it to her.
“I found it the other evening at work. Thought I might come by and visit ya if you weren’t doing anything.” He said with a sheepish grin. She looked at him with a little hesitation. “If you’re busy…” he began to back away, but she could not resist this gorgeous man standing in front of her, wanting to give her his attention. The cop was unconscious in the basement; Eddie was on his way to work. Why not?
“Come on in, Davey.” She told him, her voice filled with anticipation. He walked in slowly, looking around, hoping to see any clues to his partners’ whereabouts. She told him to sit and went out to the kitchen to get them some coffee. He watched her as she got it, coming back in with two cups and sitting down beside him. He thanked her for the cup she gave him, then began looking around some more.
“Nice place.” He told her. She thanked him, eagerly watching him as he seemed to make himself at home. He was looking behind the sofa when he saw the jacket resting on a dining room chair.
“Oh, I’m sorry. Do you have company right now?” he asked, wanting to hear her reply. Her eyes looked to where he was looking, and seeing the jacket, laughed a bit uneasily at him.
“Oh, that thing? I’ve had it for years. Belonged to a friend who gave it to me.” She lied quickly. But Starsky knew the jacket, knew it to be Hutch’s just as sure as he knew his own name.
“So you’re alone here this morning?” Starsky asked.
“All alone and all yours.” she told him, eager to know what he was planning on doing with her. She threw an arm around him. He let her throw herself on him, then grabbed her hands as they tried to cup around his head. In one swift movement, he pulled them in front of him, twisting one arm as he threw the other down, successfully turning her around, pulling the one arm behind her back and making her wince in pain as he pinned her down on the sofa.
“Oh. You like to play rough, huh?” she asked, almost purring. She was making him ill. He tightened her arm behind her back, and she hollered a little, trying to let him know he was being too rough. He leaned into her back, whispering in her ear.
“I wanna know what you’ve done with my partner, Ken.” He said slowly and evenly. The smile dropped from her face, letting fear take over.
“Partner?” she asked, scared.
“Either you tell me
where he is or I’ll snap your pretty little arm in two!!” Starsky said,
his anger flushing through and bouncing on Greta. He pulled her arm
back a little tighter,and she screamed from the pain, giving Starsky the
effect he was looking for.
Chapter Eleven
It didn’t take much for the woman to give in, the one thing that she didn’t handle well was her own fear. Captain Dobey arrived only seconds after she’d told him where Hutch was, bursting in the front door with numerous uniformed officers in time for Starsky to shove Greta into him, yelling at him to hold her as he ran to find the basement door.
“I’m coming Buddy, I’m coming.” He said as he raced down the stairs, frantic to find his best friend; scared how he’d find him. He searched the room, looking around as he called out to him, but got no response. He got to the door of what looked to be a utility room, noticing the bolt lock across the frame. He unlocked it quickly, looking inside the darkness, seeing his partner laying in the floor.
“Hutch!” he yelled, grabbing him and bringing him out from the hell hole. Hutch moaned from the movement, allowing Starsky a huge sigh of relief to hear him still alive. Starsky grabbed for his pocket knife, and used it to free Hutch from the ropes that bound him. He pulled quickly at the gag around his partners’ mouth, grateful to hear him taking deep breaths. Hutch looked bad. His face was bruised and dirty. Starsky held him as Dobey came to them in the floor.
“Get an ambulance!” Starsky yelled to his captain, then cradled Hutch in his arms, talking gently to him, hoping he’d open his eyes. Hutch moved his head back and forth in agony, then his eyes opened slowly, trying to focus on his surroundings. His eyes stopped on Starsky, who was watching him, still talking to him.
“What took you so long?” Hutch asked, his voice a harsh whisper. Starsky laughed nervously at him, grateful to hear the words.
The hospital staff worked very quickly, checking Hutch all over as he lay on the stretcher in the emergency room. Starsky never left his side, and Dobey was close enough, standing outside the doors that lead to them. It had been an hour since Starsky had found him, giving Hutch time to recover enough to not want all the attention that focused on him now. He argued with the nurses, and argued with the doctors, fussing about all the commotion that surrounded him. Starsky watched him and smiled, knowing he’d be okay. The relief he felt was overwhelming. As the doctors prepared Hutch for x-rays, Starsky walked out to talk with Dobey.
“He’s gonna be okay.” Starsky said, grinning at the Captain. Dobey grinned back at him.
“Thank God.” He replied. His look turned serious. “We know his cover is blown, how about yours?” He asked, hopeful that it wasn’t.
“Mine is fine unless Greta gets a chance to talk to Eddie. I don’t think that’s gonna happen.” Starsky answered, still looking in as Hutch continued to argue with everyone. “Hutch said that he heard them talking about a big shipment tonight. I’ll be there.” He told him.
“You’ll need to wear a wire.” Dobey told him. “I’ll make sure you’ve got plenty of back up.” He added.
“Sounds like a plan to me.” Starsky told him.
The doctor in charge of Hutch’s case came outside to talk to them, looking a little flustered as he approached.
“Is he gonna be alright?” Starsky asked, not waiting for the doctor to begin.
“He’s got a mild concussion, a few bruised ribs, and a severe attitude problem where hospitals are concerned.” The look of worry changed to a broad smile on Starsky’s face.
“That’s my partner!” he exclaimed.
“Can he go home, or does he need to stay overnight?” Dobey asked. The doctor took a deep breath.
“I don’t think we could keep him here if we tried.” He said, exasperated. “We’ll release him in a little while.” He added.
Starsky asked if he could go in there again, seeing all the other personnel exiting the room. The doctor nodded to him, and Starsky entered happily.
“You really put a scare in me for a little while there.” He told Hutch, who glared at the last nurse as she left.
“Well I’ll try to remember that the next time I get abducted.” Hutch answered him, snarling his words.
“Your head must hurt pretty bad, huh?” Starsky asked, ignoring his partners’ evil tone. The look on Hutch’s face softened.
“Yeah.” Hutch answered, sighing as his body relaxed a little. “I’m going to be there with you tonight.” Hutch told him. Starsky began to protest, but saw the look of determination on Hutch’s face and knew it would be pointless.
“Yeah. I knew
that.” Starsky answered.
Chapter Twelve
Starsky arrived at the restaurant at his normal time for work, acting as if nothing had happened out of the ordinary that day. Eddie was on the phone from the time he’d walked in, acting a little shaken and nervous. He got off the phone when Starsky walked in, slamming the phone down as he hung it up.
“Everything alright?” Starsky asked him in passing.
“Yeah. Got some work for you to do.” Eddie grumbled, pointing over to a bushel of shrimp packed in ice. Starsky grabbed an apron and began removing the shells. He watched Eddie as he picked up the phone again and dialed. Eddie began talking to an answering machine. “Greta, pick up the phone dammit!” he said fiercely. He waited only a moment before he slammed down the phone again. Lisa walked in, looking at Eddie as the anger showed on his face. She chose to ignore him. She walked over towards Starsky, and he winked at her as she passed by him, going to the walk-in cooler. He walked back to the ice machine, putting more ice on the shrimp as he waited for her to come out.
Lisa walked out from the cooler, carrying creamers and lemons and a head of lettuce. Her hands full, she closed the cooler door by kicking backwards at it. Starsky smiled at her.
“I need to talk to you. Soon.” He said quietly. She looked around, seeing Eddie back on the phone again.
“I’ll be in the break room in about ten minutes.” She told him. He nodded at her, then watched as she walked back through the kitchen, walking back in himself only a few seconds behind her. Quickly he shelled the seafood in the bowl, then walked into the banquet room where Lisa was already sitting, smoking a cigarette as she watched out towards the front.
“I can’t stay too long. Greta didn’t bother showing up this evening.” She told him.
“I know. She won’t be coming in any more, I’m afraid.” Starsky told her. Lisa looked at him, not asking the obvious. “Look it. Everything’s going down tonight. I want you to stay out of the way and keep yourself away from Eddie as much as you can.” He told her. Her eyes looked at him, questions forming in her mind, but she didn’t say them out loud.
“Are you going to be okay?” she asked, her face filled with concern. His look softened from the scowl it had formed.
“You’re worried about me?” he asked, smiling a little with surprise. Her eyes looked from the front of the restaurant up to his.
“Yes.” She answered sincerely. He slowly leaned towards her, his lips close enough to hers that they felt each others’ breath.
“What are you two up to in here?!” Eddies’ voice bellowed, making them both jump. Lisa turned away from Eddie while Starsky turned angrily to face him.
“Can’t we get a LITTLE bit of privacy around here?” he snarled at him. Eddie looked at Starsky, then Lisa, who had turned herself to face him.
“Oh.” Eddie said, seeming to realize what Starsky and Lisa were intent on in there, not realizing what the gist of the conversation was really about. “Well, you two need to take care of that on your own time.” He told them, then walked away in a huff. Lisa sighed a breath of relief.
Starsky looked at her and smiled. She returned it. He took her face and held it between his two hands and kissed her on the forehead. “We’ll continue this later” he said, grinning at her, looking her evenly in her hazel eyes. He leaned in and kissed her on the lips so gently that their lips barely touched. It seemed to electrify her.
“Be careful.” She whispered, looking up at him. “I don’t like to be stood up.” She told him, smiling. She walked out into the dining room, and Starsky walked back into the kitchen.
“What’s that all about?” Dobey asked Hutch as they sat together in his car, listening to Starskys’ conversation thanks to the mike he wore. Hutch grinned at the Captain.
“Starskys’ new friend.”
Hutch said approvingly.
Chapter Thirteen
As business began picking up for the evening, Eddie became more and more nervous. Making several mistakes on orders, he was strained and easily flustered. The further the evening went along, the worse he became, letting Starsky know the time was drawing near. He heard the air brakes outside. It was 8:30pm. Eddie looked around nervously when Starsky told him the delivery truck had arrived. Asking Eddie if he needed any help with the food order coming in, he was abruptly discharged from the kitchen and told to take a break. Starsky walked into the break room, announcing into the microphone tucked in his shirt that ‘it was about to go down’.
Dobey and Hutch sat in the car a block and a half way from the restaurant. They had seen the 18 wheeler pull into the parking lot and Hutch had told all units to stand-by. Now all they could do was sit and listen to Starsky, waiting for him to tell them when to move in.
“Shouldn’t be much longer now.” Dobey said, adjusting his position where he sat. Both men were anxious; getting nervous as the adrenaline began to flow.
Starsky watched Lisa as she finished setting the last of her rolled silverware onto the tables. They had not had any customers since the last couple left, about fifteen minutes ago. He was grateful not to have more civilians around, but worried about Lisa now. He and Lisa and Eddie were the only ones left in the restaurant. Carrie, the dishwasher, had been sent home almost an hour ago, and Gayle and Rob had gone home since it was slow, knowing Lisa would lock up and take care of things for them. Starsky walked out towards Lisa, pulling her arm to bring her in close to him.
“No matter what, I want you to stay out here in the front. No matter what you hear going on back there, alright?” he asked her, his voice firm with authority. She looked at him, nodding in agreement as she put her hand on his, saying nothing. Starsky walked back towards the kitchen. He detoured himself into the mens’ room, quickly pulling out his gun from where he had hidden it around his ankle and checked it, making sure it was ready to go. He then placed it under his T-shirt in the back of the waist of his pants. He walked back out, winking at Lisa as she watched him. He gave her one of his killer grins as he walked back into the kitchen.
Eddie was busying himself as he put up stock as it was brought into the restaurant. He was checking it off from the order form, looking like all was normal and nothing unusual was going on. The driver of the truck noticed Starsky as he stood in the kitchen, watching them, and gave Eddie a look that made his line of vision move towards the newly hired cook.
“Thought I told you to take a break.” Eddie said, looking at his helper like he’d lost his mind.
“I already took the
break. It’s time to close now and I got things to do.” Starsky said
matter-of-factly, picking up pans and utensils and placing them over by
the dishwasher. Eddie found himself at a loss for words, not knowing
what exactly to say to this guy to make him leave and be justified by it.
As Starsky started washing dishes, Eddie walked back towards the delivery
man.
Chapter Fourteen
Hutch sat up straight as he watched the two cars pull in at the front of the restaurant. Five men got out, not looking like they were there to eat. Dobey noticed as well.
“I don’t like the looks of that.” Hutch stated.
“Neither do I.” Dobey said, grabbing the mike, standing by. Hutch watched as the men pulled out guns and walked into the front entrance.
“Oh shit.” Was all Hutch said. Dobey called over the mike, bellowing to everyone who stood by to move in.
Lisa watched as the men walked towards the entrance, and grabbed a handful of menus to give to them as they came inside. Panic enveloped her as she saw the weapons they carried; they made no attempts to hide them.
“Where’s Eddie Cunningham?” one of the men said abruptly, taking his gun and aiming it straight toward her. She felt as if she were frozen, unable to command her body to speak nor move; just looking at them with the fear that took her over.
“Forget about her. He’s got to be in the back with the delivery. We’ll get the stuff and get out of here.” The tallest man said evenly. He looked over at the man whose gun aimed at Lisa. “No witnesses.” He said bluntly. The weapon was discharged without hesitation several times.
Starsky heard the gunfire, as did Eddie and the delivery man. He ran towards the front, pulling his gun from behind him. Eddie and the delivery man ran towards the walk-in, grabbing frantically at boxes that were in the furthest corner of the cooler and running back out towards the delivery truck. Both threw boxes into the truck before jumping into its’ cab. The truck had been left running, and the driver began putting it in gear. Before he could bring the truck into first, it was surrounded by several police cars, giving them no choice but to stop and get out. They were in handcuffs in no time, spread on the ground like corpses as they were searched and read their rights.
Inside the dining room, Starsky entered to the welcome of gunfire directed towards him. He threw himself to the floor as he kept his weapon aimed and firing. Two of the men were brought down immediately; the other three took cover behind tables with speed, still firing at Starsky as they tried to hide from his gunfire. What they didn’t expect was the rush of policemen that came in through the entrance, overwhelming them with fire power and force; taking them easily. Dobey came in with Hutch, checking around, searching.
“Starsky!” Hutch yelled, looking to find his partner in all the mess surrounding them.
“I’m fine!” he yelled, standing himself up quickly, putting his weapon in the back of his waist. He began searching the place with his eyes, then running around the dining room, calling Lisa’s name. He began to panic when she didn’t call back to him. He’d sent her out there. Told her to stay put. Did he send her to her own death? He became frantic. Hutch began looking around, helping in the search. It didn’t take long. Looking behind a table; one of many that had been knocked over, he found her.
“Starsky!” Hutch yelled. His partner ran beside him, falling to his knees beside Lisa. Hutch hollered over to Dobey, making sure an ambulance was on the way, as he and Starsky moved the table away from her. Blood ran from the side of her face; an open wound visible on her cheek. Starsky checked her over, looking for the bullet wounds he knew he’d find. None were there.
“She must’ve crashed into a table or something when she hit the floor, trying to get out of the line of fire.” Hutch said, looking at Lisa as she lay there unconscious, confirming to Starsky that he saw no other wounds on her either. They heard the sirens of approaching ambulances. Hutch stood up as Dobey directed the first one on the scene towards Starsky and Lisa. He walked over towards the Captain. Starsky was still kneeling over her when she began to come around.
“Lisa? Lisa baby? No, no, don’t try and move. The paramedics are here and they’re gonna make sure you’re okay. Can you hear me honey? I’m right here.” She looked at all the commotion around her, seeing police officers everywhere and a couple of the men who tried to assault her taken out in handcuffs. She let her eyes focus on him and smiled.
“You’re okay?” she asked him sweetly. He smiled at her, half laughing.
“You’re laying on the
ground in here and asking if I’M alright?” he said sweetly. Hutch
came back over to Starsky and Lisa. He looked over his partners’
shoulder, glad to see her with open eyes, aware of her surroundings.
The paramedics pushed past him and Starsky, checking her over. Starsky
stood up, watching them as they took care of her.
Chapter Fifteen
“Where’d those other guys come from?” Starsky asked Hutch, still watching as the paramedics did their job.
“Apparently they were here to take over Eddies’ action. Seems like Eddie has been infringing on someone else’s’ territory. Looks like we got two for one tonight.” He answered, grinning.
Lisa began fussing with the paramedics, refusing to let them poke and prod her any further. She sat up, pushing them away as best she could, looking for Starsky. He was right there, and knelt back down beside her.
“Lisa. Let the guys do their job here, will ya? Let ‘em make sure your okay?” Starsky asked her sweetly. She looked as if she were about to protest, when he spoke once more. “For me?” he asked her. She was overcome with a look of resign, and put her hands down. They laid her back on the floor; one checking her blood pressure as the other cleaned and bandaged the wound on her cheek.
“You look like you’ll be just fine. We just need to take you to the hospital and make sure you don’t have a concussion.” One of them told her.
“I can assure you I don’t have one. I don’t want to go to the hospital.” She told him flatly. The other paramedic looked at Starsky.
“How long was she unconscious?” he asked.
“About ten minutes.” Starsky replied. The paramedic looked at Lisa.
“That’s a pretty good sign you’ve got at least a mild concussion.” He told her. She shook her head slowly from side to side.
“I’m fine. I am NOT going.” She told him. The paramedic looked at Starsky and Hutch and stood up beside them.
“If she refuses treatment we cant force her to go. It’s that simple, and she’s that stubborn.” He told them bluntly. Starsky looked at Hutch.
“First you, then her. What am I? A magnet for stubborn people?” he asked sarcastically. Hutch chuckled. Starsky looked at Lisa.
“Stand up.” He told her, looking down at her as he held her hand out to her. She grabbed his hand, letting him pull her up towards him. Once she was standing upright, her world seemed to spin around her, and she fell into him. He smiled at her as he caught her. “You’re going to the hospital. Either you can go with them or I’ll drag you in there myself. Your choice.” He said firmly, easing her over into one of the chairs left standing in the dining room. She held her head and looked over at Hutch.
“He looks worse than I do.” She said flatly. Starsky looked over at his partner, just in time to see him wavering a little, catching himself by leaning against a wall. Starsky caught him, helping him as he eased himself into a sitting position in the floor.
“Where do ya think you’re going?!” Starsky asked, surprised by Hutch’s sudden weakness. The paramedics walked quickly over to Hutch, trying to check him out as he threw his arms up in protest. Dobey walked towards them, watching everything from the entrance of the restaurant.
“You’re both going to the hospital!” he hollered as he looked from Lisa to Hutch, back and forth. “I’m not having anyone falling out when I’m running things, now that’s an order!” he bellowed. Starsky just smiled. He looked at Hutch, then Lisa.
“Well, you heard the
man.” He said, grinning.
Chapter Sixteen
The two men that Starsky had shot in the restaurant had been killed by his defense. Eddie Cunningham and the driver of the food service truck, Jerry Wilson, had been arrested and charged with drug smuggling. 20 kilos of uncut cocaine had been recovered in the boxes that they had tried to escape with. Greta had been charged with conspiring and with the kidnapping and attempted murder of a police officer, as was Eddie. All in all, this had been a really good bust, and Captain Dobey was obviously pleased with his detectives.
Starsky and Dobey sat at the hospital, waiting to hear anything about Hutch or Lisa, knowing that neither one was seriously hurt, but still worried none the less. Hutch walked out towards them as they sat in the waiting room. Starsky and Dobey both stood up.
“Hey! What’d the doc say?” Starsky asked, putting his arm around his partners’ shoulders as he walked him to a chair.
“Need to rest up a little, that’s all.” Hutch answered, looking at them both.
“Are you sure that’s all, Hutchinson?” Dobey asked, his tone more demanding than questioning. Hutch just looked at him and smiled.
“Honest.” He said, grinning. “Cross my heart.” He teased. Starsky laughed at them both as Lisa came out from the room across from them, walking towards the desk where a nurse sat, waiting.
“Hey! Lisa!” Starsky hollered, running over to her. Hutch and Dobey followed him. “What’d the doctor say? Are you alright?” he asked her gently. She began signing papers that the nurse handed her on a clipboard and smiled halfway.
“I’m fine. Slight concussion. Eight stitches. And half my face is numb from the local he gave me. But that’s all; everything else is alright.” She said, handing the clipboard back to the nurse. Starsky put his arm around her.
“That’s great!’ he said happily. He looked at Dobey and Hutch, who stood beside them. “Ya know what?” he said, an impish grin crossing his face. “I just had a great idea!” Dobey and Hutch looked at each other as Hutch rolled his eyes, making Lisa laugh. Starsky looked at his watch.
“It’s 10:30. What say we all go out and head on over to Huggys’? I know he’s still open, and I’m starving!” he said, his facial expression filled with hope. Dobey liked the idea.
“Sounds good to me.” He said. Hutch and Lisa just looked at each other.
“After all this, you want to go to ANOTHER restaurant?” Hutch asked, his tone criticizing.
“Haven’t you had enough of restaurants for one night?” Lisa said, looking at him as if he’d lost his mind.
“Awe, c’mon you two!” Starsky began. “I’m hungry!” he said, his eyes pleading.
“Tell you what.” Hutch said. “You and the Captain here go on over to Huggy’s in your car, and I’ll take his car, be a gentleman, and take the lady home.” He said, smiling as Lisa shook her head in agreement.
“Yeah, I’m really beat, and I’ll have to go in the restaurant first thing in the morning and get things cleaned up. You two have a good time. I’ll catch up with you another time David, okay?” she said. Hutch put out his arm and Lisa accepted it, letting him walk her down the corridor. Hutch turned around as they walked, winking at Starsky.
Starskys’ facial expression was that of a child’s’; his bottom lip protruding just enough to show the pout that had formed on his face. He stood there a moment, watching, almost in disbelief.
“Come on Starsky!”
Dobey said, chuckling at him as he began walking towards the entrance.
“You did say this was your treat, didn’t you?”
The End